Nashville, TN - Dignitaries, community and music industry leaders came together Tuesday night to celebrate Wynonna Judd with the Cecil Scaife Visionary Award for her humanitarian contributions to the local, national and international community.
A power packed room at the Tennessee Governor’s Residence gave tribute to the big-hearted star. Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen and First Lady Andrea Conte, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean and wife Ann Davis, music icon Mike Curb along with wife Linda, joined 2009 American Idol finalist and Sony/RCA artist Danny Gokey, music industry and civic leaders Tony Brown, Connie Bradley, Hal Cato, and Harry Chapman in paying tribute to Wynonna for the countless charitable endeavors championed through her personal mentorship and support. The event proceeds will fund a scholarship awarded in Wynonna’s name to a Belmont student studying for a career in the music industry.
“There was electricity in the air as Danny Gokey sang to Wy, one of his idols, and a lump in the throats of the audience throughout the evening as we had the honor of celebrating one of Nashville and the world’s most beloved stars, this time not for her one of a kind talent, but for her one of a kind heart,” said event Chairperson Pamela Davis Needham.
The evening concluded with Wynonna’s dear friend and Oasis Center President & CEO, Hal Cato, who shared the many ways in which Wynonna helped lend a hand to the non-profit center known for it’s work with underprivileged children. He recounted that Wynonna’s support and dedication to Nashville’s youth has been a beacon for their organization and has allowed them to flourish over the years into one of the nation’s leading youth-serving organizations. Hal also shined a bright light on Wynonna’s immeasurable contributions outside of the Nashville community which have resulted in raising nearly 100 million dollars for a variety of different organizations ranging from rebuilding homes lost in Hurricane Katrina to feeding children in Appalachia.
The Cecil Scaife Visionary Award honors one individual each year who, through their life and work, has made it possible for future generations to realize careers in the music industry and have a better chance at a successful life.
“I love everyone in this room tonight. I am truly humbled by your presence and need to say, this night isn’t about me, it is about we. Together we have made a difference.,” shared Wynonna.
